The Mets made a big splash with the Bo Bichette signing, but they didn’t stop there. Less than 24 hours later, GM David Stearns was back at it-this time making a more subtle, but still meaningful, move by claiming 24-year-old infielder Tsung-Che Cheng off waivers from the Pirates. It’s not the kind of transaction that lights up headlines, but it’s the kind that smart teams make to shore up depth and stay ready for the long grind of a 162-game season.
Cheng, originally signed out of Taiwan by Pittsburgh back in 2019, isn’t coming in to challenge Francisco Lindor or Bichette for playing time. But that’s not the point. What he brings is athleticism, defensive flexibility, and a skill set that fits the mold of a modern utility player-someone who can hold down the middle infield in a pinch and create pressure on the basepaths.
What Cheng Brings to the Table
Let’s be honest: Cheng’s offensive numbers from 2025 don’t exactly leap off the stat sheet. In 107 games at Triple-A Indianapolis, he slashed just .209/.307/.271 with a single home run.
His isolated power sat at a low .062, which tells you he’s not driving the ball with much authority. But the Mets aren’t betting on power-they’re betting on approach.
Despite the lack of pop, Cheng posted an 11.8% walk rate last season, continuing a trend he’s shown throughout his minor league career. He sees pitches, works counts, and doesn’t chase. That’s a valuable trait, especially for a player who’s likely to slot into the bottom of the lineup if called upon.
And then there’s the speed. Cheng stole 18 bases in Triple-A last year and swiped 33 back in Single-A in 2022.
He’s not just fast-he’s aggressive and smart on the bases. In a league where every extra 90 feet matters, that kind of skill can flip an inning.
A Glimpse of the Bigs
Cheng did get a taste of the majors in 2025, but it was brief-just three games, seven plate appearances, no hits, and three strikeouts. It wasn’t the kind of debut that sticks in anyone’s memory, but again, that’s not what this move is about.
The Mets are looking at the bigger picture. Cheng has logged time at both second base and shortstop, and he’s expected to report to Triple-A Syracuse to serve as an infield depth piece. That’s where he can stay ready, sharpen his tools, and be available if and when the Mets need someone to step in.
Why This Move Matters
In an offseason where the Mets have made major headlines with big-name acquisitions, this kind of under-the-radar move might seem minor. But depth wins in this league.
Injuries happen. Slumps happen.
And when they do, teams need players who can step in and hold the line.
Cheng isn’t a star, and he may never be. But he’s the type of player who can help a team stay afloat when things get tough.
He plays solid defense, gets on base, and causes problems once he’s there. That’s a useful toolkit to have in your back pocket.
So while the headlines belong to Bichette, the Mets are making sure the rest of the roster is ready to support the stars. That’s how contenders are built.